The Secure Love Podcast with Julie Menanno

Fear can make leaving feel safer than staying, as explored through Brian and Bethany's journey. Brian shares painful memories and a distressing dream that reveal his deep mistrust and fear of abandonment. Their conversation uncovers the chronic anxiety caused by Brian's repeated threats to leave, illuminating how reactive behaviors mask vulnerabilities. The session highlights the challenge of facing fears together rather than letting them pull them apart, offering valuable insights on emotional needs and effective communication.

A family crisis during a tonsil surgery reveals how differing perceptions can unravel communication. Tensions rise as Bethany's anxiety triggers Brian’s fear of failure, leading him to consider divorce as an easier option than facing their disconnect. The discussion highlights the importance of addressing unspoken needs in relationships. Can they learn to confront their fears together instead of letting them pull them apart? A powerful exploration of how high-stress events expose existing vulnerabilities.

Brian, a partner in couples therapy, opens up about feeling like a 'second-class citizen' in his relationship with Bethany. He discusses how this feeling contributes to his anger, revealing that it stems from a deep longing for connection. The duo wrestles with unspoken sadness and twisted communication patterns, where Brian's emotional struggles turn into name-calling. Meanwhile, Bethany's coping mechanisms only enhance their disconnection. The conversation emphasizes awareness of emotions and questions how neglect affects their bond.

In this engaging session, Brian, an anxious partner, and Bethany navigate the tricky waters of couples therapy. They dive into a heated dispute sparked by a Wi-Fi password, revealing deep-rooted trust issues. Bethany grapples with being seen as the 'bad guy,' while Brian steps into vulnerability for the first time, likening it to donning a 'corny suit.' Their honest dialogue shines a light on attachment styles and the importance of breaking cycles of conflict, marking a pivotal moment for their relationship growth.

In Season 2 of The Secure Love Podcast, licensed therapist and author Julie Menanno returns with a new couple: Bethany and Brian, separated, on the brink of divorce, and making one final attempt to repair their relationship.  This season you'll hear name-calling, financial betrayal, post-partum isolation and deep emotional wounds surface in real time. But beneath the hurt, there's a deeper story, one of longing, vulnerability, and a quiet hope that love might still be possible. Whether or not your relationship looks like theirs, if you’ve ever felt disconnected, stuck in unhealthy patterns, or unsure how to move forward with your partner, you'll see yourself in their story. Can two people who’ve hurt each other so deeply learn to connect again? Can they find their way back? Season 2 begins next week. Subscribe now to follow their journey. Follow Julie Menanno on social media @thesecurerelationship. For weekly homework assignments visit our website: The Secure Relationship Podcast Attend a course or worshop hosted by Julie: Attachment Theory and Relationship Growth Courses Purchase Julie's book Secure Love: Create a Relationship That Lasts a Lifetime

In this engaging discussion, Drew shares his journey through couples therapy alongside partner Melissa, offering a candid look at their emotional growth. They reflect on their initial anxieties and the breakthroughs they experienced during 20 sessions. Julie, their therapist, explains the principles of Emotionally Focused Therapy, emphasizing conflict avoidance and healing. The trio discusses navigating anger, emotional safety, and the healing power of love, providing valuable insights into the dynamics of vulnerability and connection in relationships.

Drew, one half of a couple navigating life's challenges and participating in therapy, joins for a candid discussion about self-acceptance and shame. The conversation dives into how Drew learns to embrace vulnerability, which enhances his emotional connection with Melissa. They tackle parenting anxieties together and reflect on emotional turmoil in relationships, emphasizing the need for mindfulness and communication. Ultimately, they focus on using self-compassion to transform their relationship, breaking negative cycles and fostering deeper understanding.

Join a heartfelt journey as Melissa tackles her struggles with anxiety and the need for self-acceptance. Guided by insightful conversations, she learns to embrace her imperfections and recognizes the importance of self-compassion. The podcast delves into the connection between childhood attachment wounds and adult relationship patterns. As her partner Drew offers reassurance, they navigate the delicate balance of emotional self-reliance and mutual support. Together, they reveal how vulnerability and understanding can transform love into a secure embrace.

Drew, one half of a couple navigating relationship challenges, shares insights on the journey toward secure attachment. The discussion dives into how Drew's laid-back parenting contrasted with his partner's anxious attachment style, leading to miscommunications during family events. They explore emotional regulation, the impact of societal pressures, and the importance of self-soothing over seeking validation from each other. The conversation emphasizes personal growth, self-worth, and fostering deeper emotional connections in relationships.

Drew, one half of a couple working through their relationship with Emotionally Focused Therapy, shares insights alongside his partner Melissa. They dive into the emotional dynamics of their differing responses during a tense dinner involving their son's behavior. The discussion highlights the importance of emotional validation and the complexities of balancing personal needs with collective coping strategies. Melissa and Drew emphasize the necessity of empathy, compromise, and open communication to foster a healthier relationship while navigating the challenges of parenting.